Description
This vibrant pasta salad is a celebration of summer flavors, bringing together the sweet corn and creamy, tangy dressing of Mexican street corn in a satisfying pasta dish. It’s the perfect make-ahead side for barbecues, picnics, or a light and flavorful weeknight meal. Imagine a bowl brimming with perfectly cooked pasta, tender corn kernels bursting with sunshine, and a creamy, zesty dressing that coats every strand and kernel with irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
1 lb. Pasta (rotini, cavatappi, farfalle, etc)
16 ounces Fresh or Frozen Corn (4–5 ears or 3–4 cups)
2 Tablespoons Butter
1/4 cup Red Onion (finely diced)
1 Jalapeno (seeded and minced)
1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro (tightly packed, chopped)
3/4 cup Cotija Cheese (1/4 cup for garnish)
1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice (from 2–3 limes)
1 cup Mayonnaise
1/2 cup Sour Cream or Mexican Crema
1 teaspoon Chili Powder
1/2 teaspoon Cumin
1 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Pepper
2 Chipotle Chilies in adobo sauce (diced)
Toppings:
Garnish with remaining 1/4 cup of cheese, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package directions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and let it cool.
If using fresh corn, grill or pan-sear it with butter until lightly charred, then cut the kernels off the cob once cooled. If using frozen corn, heat it in a skillet with butter until warm.
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream or Mexican crema, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir in the diced chipotle chilies in adobo sauce for added flavor.
Combine the cooled pasta, corn kernels, finely diced red onion, minced jalapeno, chopped cilantro, and most of the cotija cheese in a large bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Before serving, garnish with the remaining cotija cheese, a fresh squeeze of lime juice, more cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder.
Notes
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Ensure your pasta is cooked to just tender to prevent it from becoming mushy in the salad.
Sweet Corn Advantage: Using sweet corn varieties will enhance the natural sweetness of the salad.
Fresh is Best: Fresh lime juice and cilantro make a significant difference in the brightness of the flavor.
Gentle Mixing: Toss the salad gently to avoid breaking up the pasta or corn kernels too much.
Seasoning Check: Always taste and adjust seasoning just before serving, as flavors can change as the salad sits.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired